Biological sciences

Winter surveys of forest-dwelling Neotropical migrant and resident birds in three regions of Cuba

Article Abstract:

Analyses of the distribution of Neotropical migrants and resident birds in Cuba shows that the western montane region has the most resident species, while Cayo Coco in eastern Cuba has the most migrant species. The most frequently encountered migrant species are Gray Catbird, Ovenbird, American redstart and warblers. White-crowned Pigeon, Cuban Emerald, Great Lizard-Cuckoo and others are among the abundant resident species. Residents occupy a broad spectrum of vegetation structure types, while migrants favor sites with structure typical of secondary forests.

Effects of selective logging on a bird community in the Brazilian Atlantic forest

Article Abstract:

The structure of bird communities is heavily influenced by vegetation structure. Human disturbance has been shown to change the structure and composition of such communities. A new study investigates the effects of selective logging upon a bird community in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil, which is one of the world's most threatened regions. The study shows that although the composition of the communities remained the same, there was a change in the abundance of some species in logged areas.

Numbers and movements of Yellow Rails along the St. Lawrence River, Quebec

Article Abstract:

Little is known about the life history and status of the secretive Yellow Rail which is found in some parts of northern North America. A new study investigates the status and distribution of the Yellow Rail along the St. Lawrence River in eastern Canada. The survey shows a rapid annual change in the number of calling Yellow Rails at Ile aux Grue, a wetland complex of the St. Lawrence corridor. It is suggested that a molt migration may occur similar to that known to take place in waterfowl and coot.